Driving with your pet onboard can keep you motivated and entertained while over the road. Whether you have a cat, a dog, or some other pet, you want to keep them safe while they’re on the bob with you.
Here are five ways to keep your pet safe and healthy while on the road:
1. Keep them secured
It may be tempting to let your pet have free range in your truck cabin, but if they aren’t the type to stay in one spot of their own accord then they could become a distraction. Moreover, if you have to hit the brakes or make a turn, they could end up injured. You can keep your pet safe by securing them in either a crate or using a harness or pet seatbelt. This will prevent them from roaming and offer them support, much the way your own seatbelt supports you.
2. Always carry a leash
Whenever possible, give your pet the opportunity to get some fresh air and exercise. Take them for a quick walk when you have the truck stopped to stretch their legs and yours, plus the fresh air will do them some good. Leashes aren’t just for dogs – you can find a leash for just about every animal, including cats, rabbits, ferrets and more.
3. Keep them entertained
A bored pet is a destructive pet. Keep your pet entertained so they don’t accidentally hurt themselves finding entertainment on their own, or consuming something they shouldn’t. Treat-release and puzzle toys will keep your pet occupied for hours as they try to figure it out. For cats, keep a scratch post in your truck so their scratch post doesn’t become your seats or bed. For dogs, keep hard plastic bones on hand to indulge their urge to chew.
4. Schedule food and bathroom breaks
What goes into your pet on a schedule comes out on a schedule. Instead of free feeding, or leaving a bowl of food out, portion out their meals and give it to them at set times as much as possible. This will get them on a routine, and you’ll be able to predict when they’ll need to use the restroom. You can plan to feed them before you head out in the morning and when you park your truck at night, for example. For dogs, they’ll usually need a bathroom break 5-30 minutes after that. For animals that may not necessarily need to do their business outside, invest in a quality litter box or potty pad system.
5. Set realistic expectations
You love your pet, so of course you want to bring them with you if your company’s policy allows. But not all animals are a fit for the trucking life. Smaller animals tend to do better in the truck, as larger dogs (over 30-40 pounds or so) tend to require more exercise and can take up quite a bit of space.
